going to the vet

Fear among dogs visiting the veterinary clinic is a well recognized problem. In one study of dogs, 3/4 of them appeared fearful when entering a veterinary clinic, with almost 2/3 visibly trembling. There are many possible reasons for this as some aspects of veterinary visits can be unpleasant (such as getting blood drawn or receiving vaccinations which can be painful).

Additionally, a visit to the vet is often associated with a car ride, which is also known to be stressful for some dogs, increasing fear and anxiety before the dog enters the clinic, compounding their reaction.

Signs of fear* in dogs while at the veterinary practice include:

Agitation

Panting

Salivating excessively

Trembling

Whining

Urinating/soiling

Attempting to escape

Growling or snapping

Fortunately, Adaptil offers several options to help your dog cope with visits to your veterinarian.

Adaptil has been clinically proven** to help reduce stress during veterinary exams, making it a more pleasant experience for everyone.

Help reduce your dog's fear of veterinary visits

1.

Use the Adaptil Spray to help make travel easier. Either spray a bandana to place around your dog's neck or spray the car. Use spray 15 minutes prior to introducing your dog to let the alcohol evaporate.

Ask your veterinarian if you can make "happy visits" to the office. These are practice visits where your dog gets treats and praise at the hospital and starts to associate good things with visiting the vet.

4.

If your dog will have an extended stay at the hospital, place an Adaptil Collar on him so he can have the comforting pheromones 24/7.